Bioabsorbable versus titanium interference screws with hamstring autograft in anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: A prospective randomized trial with 2-year follow-up

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to prospectively assess the outcome of hamstring autograft anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction by use of identically shaped bioabsorbable and titanium interference screws in a randomized trial. Methods: One hundred patients were randomized to have either bioabsorbable or titanium interference screws used for graft tunnel fixation in hamstring autograft ACL reconstruction. Patients were objectively and subjectively assessed preoperatively and 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. Radiographs at 12 months postoperatively were also assessed for tunnel width. Results: There were no differences in clinical outcome by use of Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee scores between the 2 groups at any stage of follow-up to 2 years. Tibial tunnel widths were the same between the 2 groups. There was slightly more tunnel widening in the femur when bioabsorbable interference screws were used. Conclusions: Identically shaped bioabsorbable interference screws and titanium interference screws used for hamstring autograft ACL reconstruction are equally successful up to 2 years postoperatively. Level of Evidence: Level 1, prospective randomized trial with more than 80% follow-up.